Last Challenge day

After having upped my ride total for August from 300k to 350k and finally to 400k, the last day of the challenge arrived and I still had 25 k to reach my goal. But at last the weather turned from abysmal to beautiful: blue skies, moderate temperatures and there was no excuse not to get on my bike.

I selected the easiest ride, along the Chelsea trail which is flat and scenic and made it to the Gatineau Yacht Club and back which brought my total kilometres for August to just over 400 k. Bravo Barb!

Meech Creek Valley

Although it’s now known as Cross Loop I prefer the old name - Meech Creek Valley. Apparently at evening it’s quite common to spot black bears foraging for berries or checking out the old apple trees where once farm houses used to stand.

But at midday we didn’t see bears, just field after field of Goldenrod.

Juniper Farms

The birds are loving the sunflower maze at Juniper Farms

An Ebike Milestone

Actually saw the odometer tick over

While this may look impressive I have to confess I’ve had my Ebike since 2021 and this is the total kilometres after 4 years. Not quite so impressive.

Chelsea Community Trail

The trail begins a couple of kilometres from my house and I feel so lucky to have it close enough that I can get out on it whenever the mood strikes me.

Most of the trail runs beside the Gatineau River, sometimes viewed full on and sometimes appearing through a veil of trees. This morning when I stopped to take a photo a float plane had just taken off from the water and was flying just above this sailboat before lifting higher above the river.

The Queen Anne’s Lace which was lining either side of parts of the trail like a bridal path is almost done but what’s left has been joined by Goldenrod, Purple Loosestrife and Joe Pye Weed

New Jersey

Yesterday, inspired by the arrival of my new Great Cycle Challenge jersey, which incidentally I love, so lightweight and comfortable, I took to the Chelsea Community trail once again. At one point, near Gibson’s farm a fox shot out of the undergrowth and raced along the road parallel to me before turning back into the bush and disappearing from sight. I wasn’t sure whether to feel thrilled or slightly alarmed at the appearance of this unexpected companion.

Sunday Morning thru Wakefield village

At 7:30 am Wakefield was almost deserted. The weekend visitors yet to arrive, the restaurant patios yet to raise their umbrellas, and even too early for most morning dog walkers. It was already hot at my place when I started off but air rushing by as I cycled made it very pleasant riding.

I went up Mill road beside the La Peche creek, past the mill and towards the entrance to Gatineau Park but I’m nervous to go into the park by myself in case I met a mamma bear. So I came back into the village, up Burnside, down Elmvale, through the Harbourfront condos, across the bridge and to the end of the

paved road before returning home.

15.2 km

Friday bike with Faye and Marilyn

Parked at P4 and biked towards Orleans alongside the Ottawa River. Lunch at Rockliffe boat house.

East side of Gatineau River

Heading north towards Alcove but on opposite side of the river. Partially paved, partially gravel

August 6

Chelsea Community Trail

August 4